Project Controls Estimator II

Holtec International; Camden (NJ); On-site; USD 105,000 - 125,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

401(k) retirement plan with company match

Paid time off and holidays

Education assistance

Job summary

Holtec International in Camden, NJ, is seeking a Nuclear Controls Estimator II to support the SMR‑300 program. This role involves developing detailed cost estimates, engaging with suppliers, and ensuring reliable financial planning for nuclear projects. The ideal candidate will have a strong engineering or construction background with expertise in cost modeling and data management.

Key responsibilities include preparing bottoms‑up estimates, conducting market research for benchmarks, and collaborating with project stakeholders. A Bachelor’s degree and relevant experience are required for this position.

Qualifications

• 4-8 years of experience in power plant estimating, construction, or project management.
• Experience with nuclear industry construction is desirable.
• Ability to communicate complex cost data clearly.

Responsibilities

• Develop detailed estimates for procurement, construction, and commissioning.
• Conduct market research for cost benchmarks and trends.
• Review and validate cost estimates provided by subcontractors.

Skills

Cost modeling

Data management

Analytical skills

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field

Tools

Excel

Primavera

CostOS

Job description

The Nuclear Controls Estimator II supports the development of accurate and detailed cost estimates for the SMR‑300 program, ensuring reliable financial planning for complex nuclear energy projects. This role is responsible for preparing bottoms‑up estimates, engaging with suppliers, and evaluating subcontractor pricing to support informed decision-making. The ideal candidate brings a strong engineering or construction background, expertise in cost modeling and data management, and the ability to collaborate across engineering, procurement, and construction teams to drive cost predictability and project feasibility.

Location: Camden, NJ (Onsite)

Primary Responsibilities

Cost & Schedule Estimating

• Develop detailed estimates for procurement, construction, and commissioning.
• Prepare bottoms‑up estimates from material take‑offs, supplier quotations, and subcontractor inputs, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the scope of work and project requirements.
• Review and incorporate historical data from estimates, cost data, indices, subcontracts, and other data to inform unit rates.
• Working with EPC contractors and Holtec’s construction teams, evaluate construction sequencing, resource allocation, and project milestones.
• Organize and maintain a structured approach to managing plant cost data, utilizing codes of accounts and best practices for cost breakdowns and categorization.
• Maintain comprehensive documentation for estimate assumptions, methodologies, and data sources, consistent with industry best practices.

Data Analysis & Benchmarking

• Conduct market research to gather cost benchmarks and trends, with actuals from similar packages. Assess regional rates as a function of productivity and cost.
• Evaluate major assumptions, risks, and uncertainties associated with estimates.
• Consolidate cost estimates into comprehensive financial models that support project budgeting, decision‑making, and forecasting.

Project Stakeholder Collaboration

• Review and validate cost estimates provided by subcontractors, ensuring that all portions of work are accounted for and aligned with project specifications.
• Work closely with engineering, procurement, construction, and project management to collect input and ensure alignment on project scope and costs.
• Present estimates and schedule proposals to internal and external stakeholders, including project sponsors, regulatory agencies, and financial partners.
• Create documentation for estimating methodologies, assumptions, and tools.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, or a related field. Equivalent work experience may be considered.
• 4-8 years of experience in power plant estimating, construction, or project management, ideally within EPC companies specializing in utility‑scale projects.
• Experience with nuclear industry construction is desirable.
• Knowledge of industry best practices and standards for cost estimation methodologies and financial modeling for large‑scale construction projects.
• Proficiency in estimating software (e.g., Excel‑based tools, Primavera, CostOS) and cost management tools.
• Strong attention to detail with excellent analytical skills and problem‑solving capabilities.
• Ability to communicate complex cost data clearly to project stakeholders.
• Ability to review maps, conceptual diagrams, specifications, engineering drawings, equipment specifications, etc. to develop estimates.
• Must be eligible to work under U.S. federal code 10 CFR 810.
• Subject to FFD policy in accordance with a Nuclear Facility.

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional certifications such as Certified Estimator (CE), Project Management Professional (PMP), or other related certifications are highly desirable.
• Experience in risk management, cost control, and project financial tracking.
• Experience with renewable or clean energy projects, particularly those involving SMR, solar energy, and energy storage systems.
• Familiarity with international construction codes and standards.
• GIS, AutoCAD, or equivalent experience is a plus.

Compensation

• Annual compensation based on skills and experience ranging from $105,000.00 to $125,000.00.

Benefits

• Industry‑leading medical, dental, and vision coverage with a generous employer premium contribution and Day1 eligibility.
• FLEX Program – Hybrid work opportunities available for eligible roles, where business needs and role requirements allow.
• 401(k) retirement plan with up to a 5% company match and immediate vesting.
• Paid time off and 11 paid holidays to support rest, balance, and recharge.
• Wellness program offering rewards for participation in company‑supported health initiatives.
• Commuter benefits supporting mass transit and commuter parking options.
• Company‑paid life and AD&D insurance for added peace of mind.
• Education assistance to support continued education and professional growth.
• Employee support and voluntary benefits, including an Employee Assistance Program and optional coverage such as disability, legal, identity theft, and insurance programs.
• Benefits eligibility and offerings may vary based on role, location, and employment status.